The average metabolic rate O2 consumption in Lkg times h for

The average metabolic rate (O_2 consumption in L/kg times h for a group of cool-climate fish (held at 10 degree C for 3 weeks) is compared to that of a seconds group that is held in warmer water (28 degree C) for the same length of time. The data is shown in the table below: Calculate the 10 for the oxygen consumption in the mid-range (l0-20 degree C) of animals held at 10 degree C and 28 degree C. Which group of fish is more sensitive to temperature change?

Solution

the Q₁₀ is given by the formula - Q10 = (R2/R1) ^ (10/T2-T1)

we have to calculate Q10 for fishes that were kept at 10 and 28 degrees that are normally mid range - 10 to 20

therefore T2 becomes 10 and 28

T1 becomes 10 and 20

selecting the average rate values from the table, we have 4 values :

answer a : Q10 = 2.2 ^ (10 / 10- 10) = 2.2^ (10/0) = it means result is undefined because anything divided by zero is undefined.

Q10 = 3.1 ^ ( 10 / 10 - 20) = 3.1 ^(10/10) = 3.1

Q10 = 1.5 ^ ( 10 / 28 - 10) = 1.5 ^ (10/18) = 1.25

Q10 = 1.6 ^ ( 10/ 28 - 20) = 1.6 ^ ( 10/8) = 1.80

the group of fishes that shows a higher Q10 means that their rate increases by a higher factore for every 10 degrees temperature raised,

since q10 for fishes at 20 degrees was higher, therefore they were more sensitive to the change in temperature.

answer b : the animals that were kept at 28 degrees from 10, 20 and 30 degrees respectively, have their average metabolic rates as 1.5, 1.6 and 2.3. therefore the highest metabolic rate was seen in the 30 degree organism, which means that they show complete acclimation.